Mental Health Resources for People with Type 1 Diabetes

Studies show those with T1D face a higher risk of depression, anxiety, diabetes distress, burnout and eating disorders like diabulimia.

Even when someone appears strong, check in—because mental health struggles are often invisible.

How type 1 diabetes impacts mental health

People with T1D often experience:

• Diabetes distress—frustration and exhaustion from constant management
• Burnout—feeling overwhelmed by the daily demands of diabetes
• Depression—loss of energy, motivation, or interest in activities
• Diabulimia—intentional insulin restriction to control weight
• Anxiety—fear of blood sugar swings, complications, or judgment

T1D affects every aspect of life—mental, physical, emotional, financial, and social.

The daily blood sugar fluctuations mirror mental highs and lows.

Support & resources for mental health

If you or someone you love is struggling, these resources can help:

Lean on friends & family

• Be open—share your emotions with trusted loved ones
• Talk honestly about frustrations, anxiety, and burnout
• Don’t feel guilty for asking for support

Join a diabetes community

Connecting with others who truly understand can help.

• Beyond Type 1 App—Find support from fellow T1Ds
• Breakthrough T1D’s Community Forum—Engage in conversations with the community
• Social media hashtags—Explore #T1DLife, #DiabetesBurnout, and #MentalHealthMatters

Find a mental health professional

If emotions feel overwhelming, seeking professional help is a sign of strength:

• NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)—Connects individuals with local mental health resources
• Online therapy platforms—Consider BetterHelp, Talkspace, or Integrated Diabetes Services
• American Diabetes Association’s Mental Health Provider Directory—Find diabetes-focused professionals

Recognizing suicide warning signs

If you or someone you know exhibits any of these signs, seek help immediately:

• Talking about wanting to die or self-harm
• Expressing feelings of hopelessness or being a burden
• Increased alcohol or drug use
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Withdrawing from others
• Showing extreme mood swings

Suicide prevention hotlines

Help is available 24/7.

• United States: Call 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• Canada: Find 24-hour crisis centers via the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention
• UK: Call Samaritans at 116 123 or PAPYRUS at 0800 068 4141
• México: Contact Instituto Hispanoamericano de Suicidología at 5255 46313300

You are not alone

• Achieving mental health balance takes time, but there is no shame in asking for help.
• The type 1 diabetes community is here to support you with open arms.